Operation Santa Claus is a community outreach program of the Sheriff's Office that helps needy families during the holiday season. Last year more than 200 families throughout the county enjoyed the holiday season when otherwise it would have been a struggle.

“It gives you a special feeling inside to help those who would not otherwise receive any gifts,“ said Foster. “We live in a society that has so much that we often fail to stop and remember that there are those who struggle every day to simply survive. This is our opportunity to show the community that the Newberry County Sheriff's Office cares about the people who live here, and that we want to be more than a law enforcement agency. We want to be a good community partner who is willing to do whatever it takes to serve its citizens. Whether it is Operation Santa Claus, delivering meals on wheels, and other forms of community service, we are willing to do what it takes to be a vital part of life in Newberry County,“

Foster said that this year is expected to one of the most difficult years faced by the program.

“As gas, heating fuel, and other prices continue to soar, more and more people are finding it difficult to just get by, much less be able to purchase food, clothes, and toys for Christmas,“ Foster said.

He added that the School District of Newberry County will again be a major partner in the event.

“The school district is always instrumental in helping collect toys and food leading up to the distribution,“ said Foster.

He said that they place a school bus for the officers to collect toys at local businesses, and that they conduct food and toy drives at individual schools.

“We are truly fortunate to enjoy a great working relationship with the School District,“ said Foster. “Mr. (Bennie) Bennett and his staff are a tremendous asset to us, our children, and Newberry County as a whole.”

Foster said that the department has already received requests for assistance prior to even releasing the information on this year's program.

“The simple truth is it is going to be a difficult year for this program,“ said Foster. “If we are going to meet the needs of the community, we must all pull together. It will be impossible to do this without the continued outpouring of support that we receive from the community every year during the project“

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance this year, please contact deputies Sherri Scott or Ron Abrams at 321-2211.

“I am absolutely convinced that we are going to make a difference again this year,“ said Foster. “The people of Newberry County always come through, and I know that we will meet the needs of our community together again.“

The collection of items will run through Dec. 14, and distribution of the items will begin on Dec. 17.